She is Oman: Celebrating the pillars of progress

The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Social Development, annually celebrates Omani Women’s Day on October 17, honouring the invaluable contributions of women to the nation’s growth and development.

This year, the celebration adopts the theme 'She is Oman', a tribute to the authenticity, values and achievements of Omani women, who are steadfast partners in building the country and shaping its future.

The slogan 'She is Oman' symbolises the Omani woman’s dedication, generosity and unwavering commitment to her family and society. It reflects the broader national, humanitarian and societal dimensions of women’s roles, highlighting their active participation in shaping the present and future of the Sultanate of Oman.

Omani women are recognised as the foundation of families, the source of solidarity and care, and the creators of generations that advance Oman in multiple fields. They are mothers, educators and role models who instil values, foster ambition and cultivate stable environments that contribute to a cohesive and balanced society.

Omani women’s influence spans a wide array of sectors, including education, healthcare, economy, diplomacy, culture, media, military and security, social and humanitarian work, sports, youth engagement, environmental initiatives, technology and digital development, professional crafts, law, tourism and crisis management.

Their ongoing contributions and pioneering achievements are celebrated as part of Oman’s national journey.

Dr Laila bint Ahmed al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, expressed her pride in Omani women, commending their distinguished achievements and emphasising their role as a fundamental pillar of society. She highlighted that women in Oman continue to be active partners in nation-building, supported by the patronage of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, may Allah protect him, and strengthened by their own skills, energy and dedication.

Empowering Omani women remains a national priority, aligned with Oman’s vision to enhance their participation in all facets of development. The Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) continues to implement programmes and projects supporting women across their lifetimes, ensuring their presence and engagement in the comprehensive growth of Oman. Legal frameworks also guarantee women’s rights and equality.

The Basic Law of the State ensures equality between men and women in rights and duties, equal opportunity, and equality before the law. Additional legislation, including the Labor Law, Social Protection Law, and reforms related to passports, maternity leave, education, and healthcare, further strengthens women’s legal empowerment and societal participation.

The MoSD plays a pivotal role in promoting women’s active participation by formulating national policies and coordinating efforts to empower them across various fields. The Social Work Strategy (2016–2025) provided a foundation for social policies emphasising women’s development, family stability, and rights-based approaches. Programmes targeted women across family and community development, including women with disabilities, elderly women, and women with limited incomes, ensuring equitable access to opportunities and social support.

Leadership development is also a key focus. Through initiatives such as Tasmu, implemented in partnership with the Royal Academy of Administration, women are trained and qualified for leadership, management, and public policy roles. Programmes aim to prepare female leaders for elections, decision-making councils, and strategic positions across governmental, private, and civil sectors.

Omani Women’s Associations play a vital role in social development by providing training, cultural programmes, and awareness initiatives. By the end of 2024, 68 associations, representing over 13,500 women, contributed to community development while receiving technical and administrative support to ensure sustainability and impact. The ministry actively encourages associations to adopt innovative social initiatives that enhance women’s roles as active partners in society.

Economic empowerment remains another focus, with programmes such as Tamkeen, which has supported over 200 women with economic, training, and financing opportunities, and initiatives promoting small and medium-sized home projects. Capacity-building programmes have trained hundreds more, while the Omani Women’s Wiki project (2021–2024) documented the achievements of 100 Omani women in global digital platforms. The Women Inmate Empowerment Program (2020–2025) further extends support, providing education, vocational training, and project opportunities for female inmates to ensure successful social reintegration.

Omani women also play a visible role internationally, representing Oman in forums such as the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child, Unicef Executive Board, Unesco Executive Council, the Arab Women Organization, and ISESCO, among others. Their leadership demonstrates Oman’s commitment to gender equality, international representation, and the promotion of women in decision-making roles at regional and global levels.

Omani Women’s Day celebrates these achievements, recognising women as pillars of family, society, and nation. The day carries an inspiring message for future generations, affirming that Omani women are active partners in development, exemplifying perseverance, dedication and excellence. Their contributions reinforce the foundations of Oman’s renewed renaissance and reflect a steadfast commitment to progress, equality and national cohesion.